Can You Tell When You Have Impacted Third Molars? 3 Telltale Signs

The last teeth to grow in are the wisdom teeth. They spring on the upper and lower sides of the jaw and at the corner-most part of the mouth. Most people experience their growth when they are well into their teens. However, since they come in after all the others, it is common for them to have little space to occupy. It means that sometimes, they do not follow the right path, and some might even get stuck inside the gums. When it happens, you will experience excruciating pain and other symptoms that indicate something is amiss. Here are four other signs to watch. 

TMJ-like Symptoms 

The temporomandibular joints are commonly known as TMJ. You will find them on both sides of your mouth, close to the ears. Some people get them because of an inflammation caused by teeth grinding or a genetic issue. However, the third molars grow at the back of the mouth and close to the TMJ joint. Inflammation from their eruption can cause symptoms similar to those of the disorder. If you have jaw pain and soreness, headaches, and difficulties opening and closing your mouth, you could be dealing with impaction. Visiting a dentist is the surest way to determine if you might have a problem. 

Your Ears Are Aching

Pain in the ears is another strange and seemingly unrelated problem to issues with the last molars. However, the tooth location close to the ears also means discomfort with the teeth growth process can also inflame your ears and lead to earache. If you have been struggling with ear aches and sore gums, it is time to explore the possibility that your third molars have a problem. A dentist will help make a diagnosis and determine the best way forward. 

You Have Problems with Your Gums

Complications with the gum tissue are another indicator that you might have impaction. The gums are closest to the growing teeth. If the tooth comes through your gum, a small portion of it remains covered by a flap of tissue. It makes it hard to brush the teeth and also causes the accumulation of bacteria and infections. Symptoms like bleeding gums and bad breath indicate that you need medical attention.

The best way to deal with third molar impaction is to see a dentist. They will assess the teeth through X-rays and determine if they can correct them. If not, they will extract them.

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